The latest round of Algeria's oil/gas exploration represents a major milestone in this country's mining policy. The tender includes granting 45 blocs

The latest round of Algeria's oil/gas exploration represents a major milestone in this country's mining policy. The tender includes granting 45 blocs of exploration and exploitation of hydrocarbons in 16 areas located in south Algeria. The winners will be announced towards the end of this year. Now, Algeria's national oil company Sonatrach will become a competitor like any other company.

Expert Philippe H. Solomon explains: "I expect huge response from the international oil companies. No one should forget the country's huge oil potential and its special status in Europe as major gas and oil supplier".